DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Dipivefrin

March 21, 2017

Dipivefrin Hydrochloride Ophthalmic drops, solution

What is this medicine?

DIPIVEFRIN (dye PI ve frin) is used in the eye to treat open-angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • closed-angle glaucoma

  • wear contact lenses

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to dipivefrin, epinephrine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Remove contact lenses before using this medicine. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower lid with the index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye for a few moments to spread the drops. Do not blink. Wait 15 minutes before reinserting your lenses. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use it more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

If you are using another eye drop, wait at least 10 minutes before you use the next eye medication.

If you are using the bottle with the compliance cap (C Cap) make sure the number 1 appears in the window of the cap before your first use. Remove the cap and apply your medication. After each dose, rotate the bottle until the cap clicks to the next number.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular eye pressure exams. Ask your doctor or health care professional if you should keep using this medicine if you injure your eyes, get an eye infection, or need eye surgery.

If your eyes become more sensitive to light while you are using this medicine, stay out of bright light and wear sunglasses.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • changes in vision

  • fast, irregular heartbeat

  • inflamed or infected eye or eyelids

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • tearing, stinging, itching or burning eyes immediately after using this medicine

  • sensitivity of eyes to light

  • dizziness

  • headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused solution after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert